Subaru has announced pricing for the 2027 Solterra EV, maintaining the same starting MSRP as the outgoing model despite the substantial upgrades introduced for the 2026 model year.

The all-electric SUV will arrive at dealerships across the United States later this fall with a starting price of $38,495.

Following a major refresh last year, the 2027 Subaru Solterra continues to offer improved driving range, quicker charging capabilities, enhanced technology, and stronger performance while preserving its value-focused positioning in the competitive electric SUV segment.

Up to 288 Miles of Range and Faster Charging

Every 2027 Solterra is equipped with a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivering an estimated driving range of up to 288 miles on a full charge. Subaru has continued to refine charging performance with battery preconditioning technology that helps optimize charging speeds in both hot and cold weather conditions.

The electric SUV supports DC fast-charging rates of up to 150 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 28 minutes. An upgraded 11-kW onboard charger remains standard, helping reduce charging times when connected to Level 2 home charging equipment.

All models now feature a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, providing access to more than 25,000 compatible charging stations across North America.

Standard AWD Across the Lineup

Like all Subaru SUVs, the Solterra comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The dual-motor configuration is designed to deliver confident performance on pavement and off-road trails, supported by X-MODE traction management, Grip Control, and Downhill Assist Control.

Premium and Limited trims generate 233 horsepower from their dual-motor setup, while the performance-focused XT variants receive a more powerful dual-motor system producing 338 horsepower. Subaru says the Solterra XT can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds.

The electric SUV also retains its class-leading 8.3 inches of ground clearance, helping it stand out among mainstream electric crossovers.

Advanced Technology and Safety Features

Inside, every 2027 Solterra features a 14-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. SiriusXM and SubaruConnect services are included with complimentary trial periods, offering features such as remote access, digital key functionality, safety services, and vehicle monitoring.

Safety remains a key focus, with the complete Subaru EyeSight driver-assistance suite fitted as standard. Available technologies include Emergency Steering Assist, Collision Avoidance Assist with Automatic Steering, Front Cross-Traffic Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Prevention, DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation, and Emergency Stop Assist.

2027 Subaru Solterra Premium

The entry-level Solterra Premium starts at $38,495 MSRP and includes:

– Dual-motor AWD with 233 horsepower
– 18-inch alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers
– LED headlights with washers
– Power rear liftgate
– Heated front seats
– 10-way power driver’s seat
– Dual-zone automatic climate control
– 14-inch infotainment display
– StarTex water-resistant upholstery

The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split configuration, providing up to 63.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

2027 Subaru Solterra Limited and Limited XT

Positioned above the Premium model, the Solterra Limited starts at $41,395 MSRP, while the more powerful Limited XT begins at $42,895 MSRP.

Additional equipment includes:

– 20-inch alloy wheels
– Heated steering wheel
– Heated rear outboard seats
– Harman Kardon premium audio system
– Hands-free power liftgate
– Automatic parking assist
– Multi-Terrain Monitor
– 120-volt cargo-area outlet

The Limited XT adds the upgraded 338-horsepower dual-motor powertrain.

2027 Subaru Solterra Touring XT

At the top of the lineup, the Solterra Touring XT starts at $45,855 MSRP and adds a range of premium comfort features.
Highlights include a panoramic glass roof with motorized sunshade, ventilated front seats, radiant leg heaters for front occupants, a digital rearview mirror with camera washer, and new black-and-blue leather-trimmed upholstery.

The 2027 Subaru Solterra is available in six exterior finishes:

– Harbor Mist Gray Pearl
– Elemental Red Pearl
– Cosmic White Pearl
– Astro Black Mica
– Smoked Carbon
– Midnight Tide Mica

Select colors can also be paired with a two-tone roof treatment on Touring XT models.

The 2027 Subaru Solterra is assembled in Gunma, Japan, and is scheduled to arrive at Subaru retailers nationwide this fall.

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Honda has unveiled pricing and full details for its new Super-N electric city car, which will arrive in Great Britain with a starting price of just £18,995. Developed to deliver an engaging driving experience while keeping electric mobility accessible, the compact EV blends retro-inspired styling with modern technology and efficient performance.

Drawing inspiration from the iconic 1980s Honda City Turbo II and built on the lightweight architecture of Japan’s successful N Series kei cars, the Super-N aims to bring excitement back to the small EV segment.

Lightweight Design Prioritizes Driving Enjoyment

Unlike many modern electric vehicles that are burdened by heavy battery packs, the Honda Super-N focuses on low weight and agility. Tipping the scales at only 1,097 kg, the compact EV delivers responsive handling and a more connected driving experience.

A key feature is Honda’s new BOOST Mode, which temporarily increases power output from the front-mounted e-Axle from 47 kW to 70 kW. Activating the system significantly improves acceleration, cutting the 0-62 mph sprint from 14.5 seconds in Normal Mode to 10.0 seconds.

To further enhance driver engagement, Honda has equipped the Super-N with a simulated seven-speed transmission and Active Sound Control technology, creating a more emotional driving experience while retaining the instant torque delivery of an electric powertrain.

Up To 199 Miles Of Urban Driving Range

Power comes from a compact 29.6 kWh lithium-ion battery designed to maximize efficiency while minimizing weight.

The Super-N delivers a WLTP combined driving range of 128 miles. For urban use, where the vehicle is expected to spend most of its time, Honda quotes a city driving range of up to 199 miles (WLTP).

Charging is also designed for convenience. Using a 50 kW DC fast charger, the battery can be replenished from low charge to 80% capacity in approximately 30 minutes.

Compact Dimensions, Surprisingly Spacious Cabin

Following Honda’s long-standing “Man Maximum, Machine Minimum” design philosophy, the Super-N makes efficient use of its compact footprint.

Measuring just 3,599 mm in length and 1,573 mm in width, the vehicle remains highly maneuverable in crowded urban environments while still providing seating for four adults.

Interior practicality is boosted by Honda’s well-known Magic Seats system, allowing multiple seating and cargo configurations. With the rear seats in place, the luggage compartment offers 162 liters of cargo space. Folding the seats increases available storage to an impressive 967 liters, placing the Super-N among the most practical vehicles in the A-segment.

Retro-Inspired Styling With Modern Character

The Super-N’s exterior pays tribute to the legendary City Turbo II through a wide stance, pronounced wheel arches, and distinctive aerodynamic detailing.

Inside, sporty front seats provide additional support, while blue accents throughout the cabin reference the original performance icon. Ambient lighting adds personality, glowing blue during normal driving and switching to purple whenever BOOST Mode is activated.

The model will also be available in a variety of exterior finishes, including the standout Boost Violet Pearl paint inspired by the energy of a lightning strike. Buyers can further personalize their vehicle with a contrasting black roof, rear spoiler, and optional body graphic packages.

Connectivity And Premium Audio Included

Honda has equipped the Super-N with a comprehensive suite of connectivity features as standard. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported through wired and wireless smartphone integration, giving drivers easy access to navigation, media, and communication apps.

The cabin also features a specially tuned Bose premium audio system with eight speakers and a dedicated 20 cm subwoofer mounted beneath the cargo area, delivering powerful sound performance despite the vehicle’s compact dimensions.

Affordable Electric Mobility With Character

With its combination of lightweight engineering, playful driving dynamics, practical interior packaging, and sub-£19,000 starting price, the Honda Super-N positions itself as one of the most distinctive and affordable electric vehicles entering the UK market.

Rather than focusing solely on efficiency, Honda has designed the Super-N to deliver genuine driving enjoyment, proving that compact electric cars can still be engaging, practical, and accessible.

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BMW UK has officially opened orders for the new BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition, giving customers an early opportunity to secure one of the brand’s most important electric vehicles ahead of its market launch in autumn 2026.

As the second model built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, the all-electric i3 marks a major step forward for the company’s EV strategy. Following its unveiling earlier this year, the new electric sedan has already generated strong customer interest thanks to its combination of long driving range, advanced technology, and a completely new design language.

Priced from £57,905 OTR, the BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition expands upon the standard i3 50 xDrive specification with additional premium equipment and exclusive features.

Neue Klasse Design Reimagines the BMW Sedan

The new BMW i3 introduces the brand’s latest design philosophy, blending familiar BMW sedan proportions with a modern and minimalist appearance.

Its distinctive silhouette features a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and a rearward-positioned cabin, creating a sporty stance that remains instantly recognizable as a BMW. The front fascia adopts a fresh interpretation of the signature BMW kidney grille and twin-headlight arrangement, integrating them into a single illuminated design element.

At the rear, newly designed L-shaped taillights stretch into the shoulder line, while pronounced wheel arches emphasize the vehicle’s athletic character.

First Edition Adds Premium Equipment

Based on the M Sport trim, the i3 50 xDrive First Edition includes a range of additional standard features beyond the already extensive equipment list.

Highlights include:

– BMW Iconic Glow illuminated grille
– BMW 3D Head-Up Display
– M Sport exterior and interior styling
– Harman Kardon surround sound system
– Electrically adjustable multifunction front seats
– Three-zone automatic climate control
– Heated steering wheel
– Sun protection glazing
– Automatic tailgate operation
– AC Charging Professional with 22 kW AC charging capability

The enhanced charging package doubles AC charging speeds from 11 kW to 22 kW, reducing charging times when connected to compatible infrastructure.

Advanced Digital Experience

Inside the cabin, BMW introduces its new Panoramic iDrive system powered by BMW Operating System X.

At the center of the experience is BMW Panoramic Vision, which projects information across the full width of the lower windshield. The system combines touch controls, haptic inputs, and voice interaction for a more intuitive user experience.

BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant has also been upgraded with large language model technology, enabling more natural conversations and improved voice control for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle functions.

469 Horsepower and Instant Performance

The BMW i3 50 xDrive uses BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology and features dual electric motors, one on each axle.

Key performance figures include:

– Combined output: 469 hp
– Peak torque: 645 Nm
– 0-62 mph acceleration: 4.7 seconds
– All-wheel drive capability

The vehicle also benefits from BMW’s new “Heart of Joy” control computer and Dynamic Performance Control software, which work together to deliver faster responses and smoother vehicle dynamics.

A new Soft Stop function provides exceptionally smooth stops by precisely controlling the electric motors during deceleration.

Up to 567 Miles of Range and Ultra-Fast Charging

One of the most impressive aspects of the new i3 is its range.

The BMW i3 50 xDrive is equipped with a 108.7 kWh battery pack featuring new cylindrical cells and an integrated structural design. Utilizing an 800-volt architecture, the system significantly improves charging performance.

BMW estimates that the First Edition can travel up to 563 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, while the standard i3 50 xDrive is rated for up to 567 miles (WLTP).

When connected to a 400 kW DC fast charger, the vehicle can add up to 263 miles of driving range in just 10 minutes. The battery system also supports bidirectional charging, allowing energy to flow both to and from the vehicle.

Enhanced Driver Assistance Technology

BMW is also introducing its new Symbiotic Drive concept, designed to create a more natural relationship between driver and assistance systems.

With active assistance engaged, drivers can continue steering, accelerating, or braking as desired without disengaging the support systems.

Available features include the optional Motorway Assistant, which enables hands-free driving on highways at speeds up to 81 mph or the applicable speed limit. The system can also perform automated lane changes after confirmation via eye-tracking technology.

The result is an advanced Level 2 driver-assistance experience that remains intuitive and easy to control.

Extensive Personalization Options

Customers can further customize their BMW i3 First Edition through a wide range of options and design choices.

Available upgrades include rear-seat heating, a panoramic glass roof with climate-comfort glazing, an electrically operated tow bar, and BMW Digital Premium services. Additional parking and driving technologies such as Parking Assistant Plus, Parking Assistant Professional, and Motorway Assistant can also be specified.

Six exterior paint finishes are available, including the new M Le Castellet Blue, while buyers can choose from multiple 19-inch and 20-inch aerodynamic wheel designs. Interior themes range from contemporary styles to BMW M-inspired configurations, with several steering wheel designs offered, including a distinctive white BMW Individual steering wheel.

A New Chapter for BMW EVs

The new BMW i3 represents far more than another electric vehicle in BMW’s lineup. As one of the first production models based on the Neue Klasse platform, it showcases the technologies, design language, and digital innovations that will define the next generation of BMW electric vehicles.

With class-leading range, rapid charging capability, advanced software, and strong performance credentials, the BMW i3 50 xDrive First Edition arrives as a compelling preview of BMW’s electric future.

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Leapmotor has reached a major milestone, announcing that its cumulative global vehicle deliveries have surpassed 1.5 million units as the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer continues to accelerate both domestic and international growth.

The achievement highlights the company’s rapid expansion since delivering its first vehicle in June 2019. Leapmotor reached 500,000 cumulative deliveries in October 2024 and crossed the one-million-unit mark in October 2025. Remarkably, it took the company just eight months to add another 500,000 vehicles, underscoring the growing demand for its electric vehicle lineup.

The momentum has continued into 2026. In May alone, Leapmotor delivered a record 81,569 vehicles globally, representing an 81% year-over-year increase. Overseas markets are playing an increasingly important role in that growth, with exports exceeding 20,000 units in May and more than 75,000 vehicles shipped internationally during the first five months of the year.

Aggressive Growth Plans for 2026

Leapmotor has set an ambitious target of delivering 1 million vehicles globally in 2026. The company expects between 850,000 and 900,000 units to come from the Chinese market, while international sales are projected to contribute between 100,000 and 150,000 vehicles.

To support this goal, Leapmotor is relying on a balanced product strategy. New vehicle launches are expected to account for approximately 40% of annual sales, while refreshed versions of existing models will contribute the remaining 60%. The company is also increasing its focus on higher-margin premium products, with its D-series models expected to play a larger role in the sales mix and profitability improvement efforts.

In China, the C-series remains the brand’s core offering, targeting family buyers in the 120,000-250,000 yuan ($17,600-$36,800) price segment. Meanwhile, the more affordable A-series, priced between 60,000 and 120,000 yuan ($8,800-$17,600), is designed to drive volume growth.

International Expansion Gains Momentum

Leapmotor’s global footprint now spans more than 40 countries and regions, supported by a network of over 2,000 sales and service outlets worldwide.

The company showcased its international ambitions at the 2026 International Automotive Expo Hong Kong, where it launched the Lafa 5 electric hatchback for overseas markets beyond mainland China. The event also marked the first appearance of Leapmotor’s full vehicle lineup in Hong Kong, including the A10 and D99 displayed in special themed editions.

According to senior vice president Cao Li, Leapmotor International—the joint venture between Leapmotor and Stellantis—has already achieved annual profitability. The company has also established a strong position in Europe, holding more than 30% of Italy’s battery-electric vehicle market.

Building a Global Manufacturing Network

To support long-term international growth while reducing logistics expenses and tariff exposure, Leapmotor is moving forward with a dual manufacturing strategy centered on Europe and Southeast Asia.

Construction of a dedicated European factory is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026, while localized CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly through Stellantis’ Spanish facility is expected to start in the fourth quarter. At the same time, the company continues expanding across Southeast Asia and the Middle East, adapting vehicle specifications to local regulations and charging infrastructure requirements.

Profitability Remains a Challenge

Despite strong delivery growth, profitability remains an area of focus. Leapmotor reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of 10.82 billion yuan ($1.6 billion), an increase of 8% year-over-year.

However, gross margin declined to 9.4% from 14.9% in the same period last year, largely due to changes in product mix and lower contributions from strategic partnership businesses.

Even so, Leapmotor believes continued model updates, growing overseas demand, and the expansion of global production capacity will help drive higher sales volumes and improve financial performance over time.

With international operations already profitable and global deliveries accelerating, Leapmotor appears well-positioned as it pursues its ambitious goal of delivering one million vehicles in 2026.

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JLR has unveiled the next phase of its Reimagine strategy, outlining plans to achieve double-digit revenue growth through a broader mix of electrified powertrains, stronger brand differentiation, and an increased focus on the North American market.

Speaking at the company’s headquarters in Gaydon, UK, CEO PB Balaji detailed how JLR intends to build on the momentum of its House of Brands strategy while strengthening resilience in an automotive industry increasingly shaped by electrification, software, and artificial intelligence.

The automaker also reaffirmed its commitment to invest £18 billion through FY29 in future technologies, vehicle platforms, and business transformation initiatives.

More Powertrain Choice for Range Rover and Defender

A key part of JLR’s growth strategy is providing customers with greater flexibility across its vehicle lineup.

Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will continue to use JLR’s flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA), enabling the production of mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and battery-electric (BEV) models. The highly anticipated Range Rover Electric and Range Rover Sport Electric are scheduled to launch later this year.

JLR also confirmed that the first Range Rover-branded vehicle based on its Electric Modular Architecture (EMA) platform will be revealed later in 2025. In response to evolving global demand, the model is being developed with the potential to offer a full hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) variant in the future.

The addition of HEV technology would expand JLR’s propulsion portfolio, joining existing MHEV, PHEV, and BEV offerings and giving customers more options depending on market conditions and infrastructure readiness.

The Defender brand is also set to benefit from the expanded powertrain strategy. JLR confirmed that a new Defender model will become the second vehicle built on the EMA platform. Like the upcoming Range Rover model, it is expected to offer both battery-electric and future hybrid powertrain options.

Defender to Lead JLR’s U.S. Growth Push

JLR sees North America, particularly the United States, as a major growth opportunity.

The company recently signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Stellantis to explore potential collaboration in product and technology development within the U.S. market.

As part of this strategy, JLR plans to leverage the strong appeal of the Defender brand to attract North American customers. The automaker will explore new product opportunities tailored specifically to the region while also improving supply chain resilience.

Discovery’s Future Remains Secure

While much of the spotlight is on electrification, JLR confirmed that Discovery remains an important part of its long-term portfolio.

With more than two million units sold since its debut in 1989, Discovery continues to be one of JLR’s most successful nameplates. The company said the brand will evolve with new design innovations and flexible propulsion technologies while maintaining its focus on family-oriented versatility and lifestyle appeal.

Additional details regarding Discovery’s future product plans are expected at a later date.

Jaguar’s Transformation Into an EV-Only Luxury Brand

Jaguar’s reinvention continues as the iconic British marque transitions into an all-electric luxury brand.

Production will remain centered in Solihull, UK, where Jaguar’s next generation of EVs will be manufactured. The first major product in this new era, the four-door Jaguar Type 01 GT, is scheduled to be revealed later this year.

According to JLR, the new model will combine bold styling, advanced technology, and the dynamic driving characteristics that have long defined the Jaguar brand.

Building for an Electrified Future

JLR’s latest strategy reflects a more flexible approach to electrification. Rather than committing exclusively to battery-electric vehicles across every model line, the company is expanding its range of electrified options to meet varying customer needs and market conditions.

By combining hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric technologies with a stronger focus on premium brands such as Range Rover, Defender, Discovery, and Jaguar, JLR aims to accelerate growth while positioning itself for long-term success in the global luxury automotive market.

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BMW appears to have a welcome challenge on its hands. Following stronger-than-expected interest in its next-generation electric vehicles, the German automaker is reportedly bringing forward the launch of the all-new BMW i3 electric sedan to capitalize on growing customer demand.

According to a report from German publication Automobilwoche (in German), BMW will begin accepting orders for a special “1st Edition” version of the i3 in Germany this week—months earlier than originally planned. The company had previously intended to open order books in autumn, but enthusiasm surrounding the new electric 3 Series has prompted a faster rollout.

The BMW i3 is the second model built on the automaker’s dedicated Neue Klasse EV platform, following the recently unveiled iX3 electric SUV. Interest in the sedan has reportedly been exceptionally strong since its debut in March, with demand coming not only from Europe but also from China, where the model was showcased during its global premiere.

BMW i3 50 xDrive Leads the Launch

At launch, BMW is expected to offer a single variant: the i3 50 xDrive. The all-wheel-drive electric sedan features a dual-motor setup producing 469 horsepower (345 kW) and 476 lb-ft (645 Nm) of torque.

Power comes from a battery pack with a usable capacity of approximately 107-108 kWh. Thanks to BMW’s sixth-generation electric drivetrain technology, including newly developed cylindrical battery cells and an advanced 800-volt architecture, the i3 promises impressive performance and efficiency.

Preliminary estimates suggest the i3 50 xDrive could deliver around 440 miles (708 km) of EPA-rated range. BMW has also indicated a maximum range figure of up to 900 kilometers under less stringent testing standards, though final homologated figures have yet to be confirmed.

Ultra-Fast 400 kW Charging

One of the i3’s standout features is its charging capability. The 800-volt system supports DC fast charging at up to 400 kW, enabling the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 21-22 minutes.

BMW says its sixth-generation EV technology delivers substantial improvements in charging speed, energy efficiency, and overall driving performance compared to current-generation models.

The i3 will also feature vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality as standard, allowing owners to power external devices such as tools, appliances, and electronic equipment directly from the vehicle’s high-voltage battery. Output through the charging port is rated at up to 3.7 kW.

More Variants Expected Later

While the i3 50 xDrive will be the first version available, BMW is expected to expand the lineup with additional variants in the future. These are likely to include rear-wheel-drive models with smaller battery packs, offering lower pricing and even greater efficiency.

Production Begins in Munich This August

Despite the earlier order launch, production timing reportedly remains unchanged. BMW plans to start manufacturing the i3 in August at its historic Munich plant, long associated with production of the conventional 3 Series.

For North American customers, the new electric sedan will arrive with a Tesla-style NACS charging port as standard, while a CCS adapter will also be included. U.S. sales are expected to begin in 2027, although pricing details have not yet been announced.

With strong demand already building ahead of production, the BMW i3 is shaping up to become one of the most important launches in the company’s transition to its next generation of electric vehicles.

The post BMW Opens i3 Order Books Early as Demand for Electric 3 Series Surges appeared first on Electric Cars Report.

Volvo Cars is making public EV charging easier than ever for American drivers with the rollout of Plug & Charge functionality for its all-electric EX90 and upcoming EX60 models.

The new feature is designed to simplify the public charging experience by eliminating several common steps typically required at charging stations. Once Plug & Charge is activated, drivers can simply connect their vehicle to a compatible charger and charging will begin automatically. Authentication and payment are handled seamlessly between the vehicle and the charging network, removing the need to open a mobile app, swipe a payment card, or manually start a charging session.

The technology is available immediately for Volvo EX90 owners in the United States and will be introduced for the EX60 when customer deliveries begin later this year.

Access to More Than 35,000 Charging Stations

Volvo says Plug & Charge will initially work across participating charging networks, including Tesla Superchargers and IONNA locations in the U.S. Together, these networks provide access to more than 35,000 charging points, helping drivers spend less time managing charging sessions and more time on the road.

Compatible charging locations can be easily found through the vehicle’s built-in Google-based infotainment system or the Volvo Cars app. Charging stops can also be automatically integrated into navigation routes when needed, streamlining long-distance travel. Volvo noted that additional charging partners are expected to join the program in the future.

Enhancing the EV Ownership Experience

According to Volvo, the addition of Plug & Charge reflects the company’s ongoing effort to create a more intuitive and user-friendly electric vehicle ownership experience.

“The EX60 and EX90 reflect Volvo Cars’ vision for the future of mobility—vehicles that combine safety, sustainability, and human-centric technology,” said Jim Nichols, Head of Product, Technology & Consumer Offer at Volvo Car Americas. “With the addition of Plug & Charge, Volvo drivers can enjoy an even more seamless ownership experience, making public charging as simple as plugging in and walking away.”

As charging infrastructure continues to expand across the United States, Plug & Charge technology is becoming an increasingly important feature for EV drivers. By reducing friction at public charging stations and supporting access to a growing network of chargers, Volvo aims to provide greater convenience and confidence for customers transitioning to electric mobility.

The rollout marks another step in Volvo’s broader strategy to strengthen its EV ecosystem and improve everyday usability for electric vehicle owners.

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QuantumScape has announced a new joint research agreement with Honda R&D aimed at accelerating the development of next-generation solid-state lithium-metal batteries.

The multi-year collaboration will focus on advancing QuantumScape’s battery platform while also refining the manufacturing processes required to bring the technology to large-scale production. The agreement marks the next phase in the relationship between the two companies after Honda successfully completed an extensive evaluation of QuantumScape’s technology.

According to QuantumScape, Honda conducted a comprehensive assessment that included hands-on technical analysis of the company’s solid-state battery platform, as well as benchmarking against competing technologies through a range of standard industry tests.

Honda said the evaluation revealed significant advantages in QuantumScape’s technology.

“QS technology demonstrated compelling and unique advantages during our evaluation,” said Atsushi Ogawa, Chief Operating Officer of the Research Center of Excellence at Honda R&D. “We see potential for QS technology to add value across a range of applications, including automotive, and we are excited to move forward into the next phase of our partnership.”

Solid-state batteries are widely viewed as one of the most promising technologies for future electric vehicles. Compared with conventional lithium-ion batteries, they have the potential to deliver higher energy density, improved safety, faster charging capabilities, and longer lifespan.

For QuantumScape, securing a deeper partnership with one of the world’s largest automakers represents another important step toward commercializing its technology.

“Honda is a leading global automaker renowned for its engineering excellence and product quality across automotive and other applications worldwide, and its evaluation represents one of the most rigorous assessments of our technology to date,” said Dr. Siva Sivaram, CEO and President of QuantumScape. “This agreement reflects the growing confidence in QS solid-state lithium-metal batteries to enable safer, higher-density energy storage.”

While neither company disclosed a timeline for commercialization, the agreement highlights growing industry momentum behind solid-state battery technology as automakers continue searching for ways to improve EV range, charging performance, and safety.

The collaboration could help accelerate the path toward next-generation electric vehicles powered by solid-state batteries, a technology many believe will play a key role in the future of electrified transportation.

The post QuantumScape and Honda Deepen Collaboration on Solid-State Battery Development appeared first on Electric Cars Report.

Electrify America has expanded its California charging network with the opening of a new large-format EV charging station in downtown Santa Barbara. The new site combines 20 Hyper-Fast chargers with the company’s largest public battery energy storage system (BESS) deployment to date, helping improve charging access while supporting grid reliability.

Located at 36 West Carrillo Street on the former Greyhound bus depot property, the station features 20 DC fast chargers capable of delivering up to 350 kW. Compatible electric vehicles can add up to 20 miles of driving range per minute under ideal charging conditions.

The Carrillo Street station is Electrify America’s second location in Santa Barbara, joining its existing site at 3790 State Street. It also becomes the company’s fourth large-format charging hub in California, alongside stations in Santa Monica, San Diego, and San Francisco.

A key feature of the new charging site is its 1.9-megawatt battery energy storage system, the largest public BESS deployment in Electrify America’s network so far. The system stores electricity during periods of low demand or when renewable energy generation is abundant, then releases that energy during peak charging periods. This approach helps increase charging capacity, reduce strain on the local power grid, and maximize the use of renewable energy.

“This large-format station showcases the next evolution of charging infrastructure, combining high-power charging with integrated battery energy storage to deliver reliable capacity at scale,” said Rob Barrosa, President and CEO of Electrify America.

Barrosa added that the advanced storage technology enables the company to bring Hyper-Fast charging to locations that have traditionally been difficult to serve while making charging more convenient for drivers in downtown Santa Barbara.

At launch, all 20 chargers are equipped with CCS connectors. Electrify America plans to convert some of the chargers to NACS connectors later this summer as part of its ongoing NACS pilot program, allowing a broader range of EV drivers to charge without needing an adapter.

The new Santa Barbara station reflects Electrify America’s strategy of deploying larger charging sites with 20 or more chargers to meet growing EV demand. By increasing charging capacity at high-traffic locations, the company aims to reduce wait times and provide a more reliable charging experience as electric vehicle adoption continues to accelerate across California and the United States.

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Uber, Stellantis, and autonomous driving startup Wayve have announced a new partnership aimed at bringing Level 4 autonomous robotaxis to cities around the world. The collaboration combines Stellantis’ vehicle manufacturing expertise, Wayve’s AI-powered self-driving technology, and Uber’s global ride-hailing platform to create a scalable driverless mobility service.

The three companies have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development and deployment of fully autonomous vehicles across Europe, North America, and other global markets.

Combining Vehicles, AI and Mobility Services

The partnership brings together three key components required to commercialize autonomous transportation at scale.

Stellantis will provide vehicles built on its L4-Ready Platforms, which are engineered specifically for driverless operations. These platforms feature integrated sensor systems, built-in redundancy, and safety-focused architecture designed to meet the demands of high-utilization autonomous fleets.

Wayve will contribute its AI driving software, which enables vehicles to navigate complex urban environments without relying on detailed pre-mapped routes. Instead, the company’s system uses an end-to-end AI approach powered by six cameras, radar sensors, and machine learning to interpret and respond to real-world driving conditions.

Uber will integrate the autonomous vehicles into its global mobility network, allowing customers to book robotaxi rides directly through the Uber app.

Wayve’s Mapless AI Approach

Unlike many autonomous driving systems that depend heavily on high-definition maps, Wayve’s technology is designed to learn and adapt from real-world driving experiences.

The company describes its software as a “mapless” AI system capable of understanding road environments and making driving decisions by observing and learning from human behavior. This approach allows the technology to adapt to new cities and driving conditions without requiring extensive city-by-city mapping or software re-engineering.

Wayve has been testing autonomous vehicles on public roads in London since 2018, although all testing has been conducted with safety drivers behind the wheel. The initial deployments resulting from the partnership are also expected to include safety operators during early rollout phases.

Building on Existing Autonomous Mobility Partnerships

The announcement expands existing relationships between the companies. Stellantis and Wayve previously entered an agreement to integrate advanced AI-assisted driving technology into consumer vehicles, while Uber and Wayve have already partnered to launch autonomous ride services in London, Tokyo, and ten additional cities beginning this year.

Uber and Stellantis also announced a separate autonomous vehicle collaboration last year involving AI computing leader Nvidia.

The latest agreement represents another step in Uber’s growing robotaxi strategy as the company continues partnering with autonomous technology providers rather than developing its own self-driving platform.

Preparing for High-Utilization Autonomous Fleets

Robotaxis are expected to operate significantly more hours per day than conventional taxis because they eliminate driver shift limitations. While vehicles will still require charging and maintenance downtime, increasingly fast EV charging infrastructure is expected to minimize interruptions.

That makes durability, reliability, and operational efficiency critical factors for future autonomous fleets. Stellantis says its L4-Ready Platforms are being designed with those requirements in mind, supporting the long operating hours and demanding usage patterns associated with commercial robotaxi services.

A Step Toward Commercial Robotaxi Services at Scale

The companies plan to collaborate on vehicle integration, testing, validation, and deployment as they work toward launching commercial autonomous ride-hailing services in multiple global markets.

While the agreement does not yet include specific launch dates or vehicle models, it establishes a framework for future agreements covering technology development, licensing, production, and vehicle procurement.

As competition in the autonomous mobility sector intensifies, the partnership highlights an increasingly common industry approach: combining vehicle manufacturers, AI technology providers, and mobility platforms to accelerate the rollout of safe, scalable robotaxi services.

If successful, the collaboration could help bring autonomous ride-hailing to millions of riders worldwide and mark another major milestone in the commercialization of self-driving transportation.

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